The City Council in Laconia, New Hampshire, has banned the possession or sale of synthetic marijuana, also known as "spice."

The council voted to approve the ban in a 4-1 vote Monday night. It goes into effect immediately. Other ordinances have been passed in Franklin, Tilton and Belmont.

In August, Gov. Maggie Hassan declared a state of emergency to allow public health officials to investigate and quarantine synthetic drugs linked to overdoses in Manchester and Concord.

Authorities said more than 50 people in the Manchester area have experienced serious medical reactions to synthetic cannabinoids known as "spice" that are chemically engineered substances similar to the active ingredient in marijuana. Concord also has reported overdose cases.